A strong 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck near Te Anau on New Zealand’s South Island on Thursday evening, prompting authorities to respond immediately. The tremor shook several parts of the lower South Island and alarmed residents across the region. The New Zealand National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) confirmed that the earthquake’s epicentre was located about 40 kilometres north of Te Anau, a well-known gateway to the Fiordland National Park. Emergency officials began assessing the situation as soon as the earthquake occurred and advised people to stay alert for further updates. Authorities reported no immediate information about major damage or injuries.
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5.9-Magnitude Earthquake Shakes South Island, Triggering Initial Tsunami Warning
Following the earthquake, NEMA issued a tsunami warning for coastal communities stretching from Milford Sound to Puysegur Point. Officials instructed residents living in the affected areas to move to higher ground or travel as far inland as possible as a precaution. Emergency teams activated response measures and closely monitored sea conditions while local Civil Defence authorities remained on standby. The warning aimed to protect coastal communities from any possible tsunami impact while experts continued analysing seismic and ocean data.
GeoNet received more than 20,000 reports from people who felt the earthquake across New Zealand’s South Island. The main quake triggered seven smaller aftershocks, all centred around the Te Anau region. Scientists continued monitoring the seismic activity to determine whether additional tremors could occur. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) and the German Research Centre for Geosciences (GFZ) also recorded the earthquake at a magnitude of 5.9 and confirmed that it occurred at a depth of more than 50 kilometres.
New Zealand Authorities Downgrade Tsunami Alert but Warn of Strong Coastal Currents
After reviewing updated seismic information, NEMA downgraded the tsunami warning to a tsunami advisory. Officials said the revised assessment showed that widespread coastal flooding was no longer expected. The agency informed residents that they no longer needed to evacuate unless local Civil Defence authorities issued further instructions. Emergency officials continued monitoring the coastline while keeping the public informed through regular updates. Authorities urged everyone to rely only on official information and remain prepared for any changes.
Although the tsunami threat eased, NEMA warned that dangerous sea conditions could still affect parts of the South Island’s west coast. Officials said strong and unusual currents, along with unpredictable surges, could occur between Milford Sound and Puysegur Point. Authorities advised residents, tourists, and boat operators to avoid beaches, harbours, and coastal waters until conditions returned to normal. Emergency agencies continued monitoring the region and assured the public that they would issue additional advisories if the situation changed.
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